9 Best ARRIS Surfboard Cable Modems (October 2026)
The best ARRIS Surfboard cable modems include the ARRIS Surfboard SB8200 for a separate router setup, the ARRIS Surfboard S34 for a 2.5 Gigabit connection, and the ARRIS Surfboard G34 for built-in Wi-Fi 6.
On this page (4 sections)
The ARRIS Surfboard SB8200 is the best ARRIS Surfboard modem for most homes if you already have a router and want a separate DOCSIS 3.1 modem. For a 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet port, compare the S34 and S33; for a single box with Wi-Fi, look at the G34, G36, G20, G54 or G18.
ARRIS has modem-only models and modem-router combos, so start by deciding whether you want to keep your current Wi-Fi equipment. Check your provider's approved-device list and plan limits before buying any modem.
Use the cable modem buying guide to compare speed tiers and setup choices. If you are choosing between modem-only options, see our best DOCSIS 3.1 cable modems and ARRIS Surfboard S33 vs SB8200 comparison.
Our picks at a glance
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Which ARRIS Surfboard modem is best for your setup?
The SB8200 is the top pick for a separate-router setup, while the S34 and S33 add a 2.5 Gigabit port and the G-series models include Wi-Fi. Choose the model that matches your provider, plan speed and home network.
ARRIS Surfboard SB8200: Best for a separate router setup
- DOCSIS 3.1
- Two 1 Gigabit Ethernet ports
- Modem only
- Qualified for Cox, Xfinity and Spectrum
The SB8200 is a modem-only choice with two 1 Gigabit Ethernet ports. Pair it with a router or mesh system for home Wi-Fi.
Pros
- Two 1 Gigabit Ethernet ports
- DOCSIS 3.1
- Qualified for Cox, Xfinity and Spectrum
Cons
- Requires a separate Wi-Fi router
- Confirm current model support with your provider
The SB8200 is a clear choice if you want to keep your existing router or mesh system. It is a DOCSIS 3.1 modem with two 1 Gigabit Ethernet ports, and ARRIS identifies it as qualified for Cox, Xfinity and Spectrum.
It is a modem only, so it does not create a Wi-Fi network by itself. Connect one of its Ethernet ports to your router, then activate the modem with your cable provider.
ARRIS says the two ports can support up to 2 Gbps wired aggregate. That does not mean a single connected device gets 2 Gbps, since your service plan, provider configuration, router and connected devices all matter.
Choose the SB8200 if you want a modem and already have Wi-Fi covered. If you need a 2.5 Gigabit port for a faster router, compare the S34 and S33 below.
ARRIS Surfboard S34: Best for a 2.5 Gigabit connection
- DOCSIS 3.1
- One 2.5 Gigabit and one 1 Gigabit Ethernet port
- Modem only
- Next-generation upstream support
The S34 has a 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet port for a compatible high-speed router, plus a 1 Gigabit port for another wired device. It is a modem only.
Pros
- 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet port
- Separate 1 Gigabit port
- Supports next-generation upload tiers
Cons
- Requires a separate Wi-Fi router
- Provider support can vary by plan and model
The S34 fits a network with a 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet port and gives you headroom beyond a 1 Gbps connection. It also has a 1 Gigabit port for an additional wired device, subject to provider configuration.
ARRIS describes the S34 as supporting cable plans up to 2.5 Gbps and next-generation upload tiers. Those depend on your provider and plan, so confirm model and speed tier support with your ISP.
Like the SB8200, the S34 is modem only. You need a separate Wi-Fi router or mesh system, and a 2.5 Gigabit modem port only helps when the rest of the connection can use it.
For a closer look at another 2.5 Gigabit option, read our ARRIS Surfboard S33 review. The S33 also has a 2.5 Gigabit port and a second 1 Gigabit port.
ARRIS Surfboard G34: Best for built-in Wi-Fi 6
- DOCSIS 3.1
- Dual-band Wi-Fi 6 AX3000
- Four 1 Gigabit Ethernet ports
- Up to 2,500 sq ft stated coverage
The G34 combines a cable modem and dual-band Wi-Fi 6 router in one device. Four 1 Gigabit ports support wired connections.
Pros
- Modem and router in one device
- Wi-Fi 6 AX3000
- Four 1 Gigabit Ethernet ports
Cons
- Check whether the coverage fits your home layout
- Confirm your provider supports the exact model
The G34 fits buyers who want a modem and Wi-Fi router in one device. It combines DOCSIS 3.1 with dual-band Wi-Fi 6 AX3000 and four 1 Gigabit Ethernet ports for wired devices.
ARRIS gives a coverage figure of up to 2,500 sq ft, but walls, layout and interference affect real coverage. Check whether a single router location can serve your rooms before choosing an all-in-one device.
This model combines modem and router functions in one box. If you later change your Wi-Fi setup, both functions are in the same device.
Pick the G34 if you want built-in Wi-Fi 6 and four wired ports. Check provider compatibility for the exact model and plan first.
ARRIS Surfboard S33: Best for a compact multi-gig modem
- DOCSIS 3.1
- One 2.5 Gigabit and one 1 Gigabit Ethernet port
- Modem only
- Separate router required
The S33 pairs a 2.5 Gigabit port with a second 1 Gigabit port in a modem-only setup. Add a separate router or mesh system for Wi-Fi.
Pros
- 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet port
- Second 1 Gigabit Ethernet port
- DOCSIS 3.1
Cons
- No built-in Wi-Fi
- Confirm provider approval for your plan
The S33 is a modem-only alternative to the S34 with a 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet port and a separate 1 Gigabit port. It suits buyers who want a fast wired connection to their own router without built-in Wi-Fi.
ARRIS describes it for cable plans up to 2.5 Gbps. That speed depends on your provider and plan, so verify support before choosing it.
Its 5.25 x 1.8 x 5.24 in dimensions can help when you want to keep the modem near a router or desktop setup. You still need a separate router or mesh system for wireless coverage.
Choose the S33 if your router supports 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet and you prefer a standalone modem. Our S33 vs SB8200 comparison explains the port and plan differences.
ARRIS Surfboard G36: Best for multi-gig Wi-Fi 6
- DOCSIS 3.1
- Dual-band Wi-Fi 6
- 2.5 Gigabit plus four 1 Gigabit Ethernet ports
- Up to 2,500 sq ft stated coverage
The G36 combines a DOCSIS 3.1 modem with Wi-Fi 6 and a 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet port. Its other four Ethernet ports are 1 Gigabit.
Pros
- Built-in dual-band Wi-Fi 6
- 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet port
- Four additional 1 Gigabit ports
Cons
- Check provider and plan support
- Coverage depends on home layout
The G36 puts a DOCSIS 3.1 modem and Wi-Fi 6 router in one device, with a 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet port and four 1 Gigabit ports. That gives it more wired flexibility than the G34.
It is a dual-band Wi-Fi 6 AX3000 model, and ARRIS states coverage up to 2,500 sq ft. Treat that as a planning figure rather than a guarantee for every floor plan, since walls and placement affect signal.
The G36 suits a one-box setup with a faster wired port and several standard Ethernet connections. Confirm your provider supports it and that its built-in Wi-Fi meets your home's needs.
ARRIS Surfboard G20: Best for gigabit plans with Wi-Fi 6
- DOCSIS 3.1
- Dual-band Wi-Fi 6 AX3000
- Two 1 Gigabit Ethernet ports
- Supports gig-speed cable plans
The G20 combines a DOCSIS 3.1 modem and dual-band Wi-Fi 6 router in one device. It supports gig-speed cable plans and has two Ethernet ports.
Pros
- Modem and Wi-Fi 6 router in one device
- Two Ethernet ports
- Supports gig-speed cable plans
Cons
- Confirm the plan ceiling with your provider
- No 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet port
The G20 is an all-in-one DOCSIS 3.1 modem and Wi-Fi 6 router for gig-speed cable plans. It has dual-band Wi-Fi 6 and two Ethernet ports.
This model suits households that want one device and do not need a 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet port. Your provider's plan ceiling matters, so confirm the exact G20 approval and supported tier before switching.
A combined unit puts modem and router functions in the same device. Choose it if that fits your home network and you want Wi-Fi 6 built in.
ARRIS Surfboard T25: Best for Xfinity voice service
- DOCSIS 3.1
- Xfinity Internet and Voice
- Approved for plans up to 800 Mbps
- Router required for Wi-Fi
The T25 is designed for Xfinity Internet and Voice service, with support for plans up to 800 Mbps. Connect a separate router for Wi-Fi.
Pros
- Supports Xfinity voice service
- DOCSIS 3.1
- Plan support up to 800 Mbps
Cons
- For Xfinity service only
- Confirm plan compatibility before choosing
The T25 is the specialist pick for Xfinity Internet and Voice. It supports Xfinity plans up to 800 Mbps and is a DOCSIS 3.1 modem.
This model is specified for Xfinity service. You'll need a separate router for Wi-Fi.
Choose the T25 when you need voice service through Xfinity and its plan limit matches your service. If you do not use home phone service, compare the broader provider choices in our Xfinity compatible modem guide.
ARRIS Surfboard G54: Best for Wi-Fi 7 and many wired devices
- DOCSIS 3.1
- Wi-Fi 7
- One 10 Gigabit and four 1 Gigabit Ethernet ports
- Up to 5,000 sq ft stated coverage
The G54 combines a cable modem with Wi-Fi 7 and five Ethernet ports, including one 10 Gigabit port. Check your plan and devices before choosing this setup.
Pros
- Built-in Wi-Fi 7
- One 10 Gigabit Ethernet port
- Four additional 1 Gigabit ports
Cons
- Confirm provider support and plan fit
- Its stated coverage may not match every home
The G54 combines a DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem with a Wi-Fi 7 router and five Ethernet ports: one 10 Gigabit port and four 1 Gigabit ports. It suits a high-capacity home network with newer Wi-Fi devices and wired equipment.
ARRIS describes quad-band Wi-Fi 7 with coverage up to 5,000 sq ft. Home layout and gateway placement affect coverage, so use that figure as a reference and check provider compatibility.
The G54's ports and Wi-Fi standard may exceed what many home plans need. Pick it when your plan, devices and wired network can use those features.
ARRIS Surfboard G18: Best for Wi-Fi 6 with four ports
- DOCSIS 3.1
- Dual-band Wi-Fi 6
- Four Ethernet ports
- Supports gig-speed cable plans
The G18 combines a DOCSIS 3.1 modem and Wi-Fi 6 router for gig-speed cable plans. It has four Ethernet ports.
Pros
- Modem and router in one device
- Four Ethernet ports
- Dual-band Wi-Fi 6
Cons
- Confirm the plan ceiling with your provider
- Check exact port speeds for your setup
The G18 combines a DOCSIS 3.1 modem with dual-band Wi-Fi 6 and four Ethernet ports. It supports gig-speed cable plans, making it a fit for a household that wants built-in Wi-Fi and several wired connections.
The Ethernet port speeds aren't specified here, so check that detail if a wired device needs a particular link rate. Provider support and plan ceilings also vary.
Choose the G18 for a one-box Wi-Fi 6 setup after confirming those details. If you want to compare other combined units, see our best cable modem router combos.
How we chose the best ARRIS Surfboard modem picks
We compared each model's modem type, Ethernet ports, Wi-Fi features and provider notes against common home setups. Our score weighs specs and features against what you're shopping for, including whether you need a standalone modem, a multi-gig port, built-in Wi-Fi or voice support.
Provider compatibility can vary by model and plan. ARRIS advises customers to check with their cable provider, so verify the exact model against your provider's current approved-device information before you buy.
| Product | Best for | Type | Ethernet | Wi-Fi | Our score |
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| ARRIS Surfboard SB8200 | a separate router setup | DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem | Two 1 Gigabit ports | Requires a separate router or mesh system | 9.1 |
| ARRIS Surfboard S34 | a 2.5 Gigabit connection | DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem | One 2.5 Gigabit and one 1 Gigabit port | Requires a separate router or mesh system | 8.9 |
| ARRIS Surfboard G34 | built-in Wi-Fi 6 | DOCSIS 3.1 modem and Wi-Fi 6 router | Four 1 Gigabit ports | Dual-band Wi-Fi 6 AX3000 | 8.6 |
| ARRIS Surfboard S33 | a compact multi-gig modem | DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem | One 2.5 Gigabit and one 1 Gigabit port | Requires a separate router or mesh system | 8.4 |
| ARRIS Surfboard G36 | multi-gig Wi-Fi 6 | DOCSIS 3.1 modem and Wi-Fi 6 router | One 2.5 Gigabit and four 1 Gigabit ports | Dual-band Wi-Fi 6 AX3000 | 8.0 |
| ARRIS Surfboard G20 | gigabit plans with Wi-Fi 6 | DOCSIS 3.1 modem and Wi-Fi 6 router | Two Ethernet ports | Dual-band Wi-Fi 6 AX3000 | 7.6 |
| ARRIS Surfboard T25 | Xfinity voice service | DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem with voice | Four Ethernet ports | Requires a separate router | 7.3 |
| ARRIS Surfboard G54 | Wi-Fi 7 and many wired devices | DOCSIS 3.1 modem and Wi-Fi 7 router | One 10 Gigabit and four 1 Gigabit ports | Quad-band Wi-Fi 7 | 7.2 |
| ARRIS Surfboard G18 | Wi-Fi 6 with four ports | DOCSIS 3.1 modem and Wi-Fi 6 router | Four Ethernet ports | Dual-band Wi-Fi 6 | 6.9 |
What should you check before buying an ARRIS modem?
Check your provider's approved-device list, your plan speed and whether you need a modem only or a Wi-Fi combo. These checks narrow the choices quickly.
Is a best ARRIS Surfboard modem pick compatible with your provider?
Compatibility is specific to the model and service plan. ARRIS identifies the SB8200 as qualified for Cox, Xfinity and Spectrum, while the T25 is specified for Xfinity Internet and Voice.
Other models in this guide also name major providers, but approval can depend on plan and configuration. Check your ISP's current list before you disconnect existing equipment.
Do you need a modem only or a Wi-Fi combo?
A modem-only model needs a separate router or mesh system to provide home Wi-Fi. The SB8200, S34 and S33 are modem-only picks in this roundup.
The G34, G36, G20, G54 and G18 combine modem and Wi-Fi router functions. Choose a combo if you want fewer devices, or a standalone modem if you want to choose your router separately.
Does your home need a 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet port?
A 2.5 Gigabit port can be useful when your plan, router and wired devices support speeds above 1 Gbps. The S34 and S33 have one 2.5 Gigabit port and one 1 Gigabit port, while the G36 includes one 2.5 Gigabit port plus four 1 Gigabit ports.
For plans at or below 1 Gbps, a 1 Gigabit connection may be enough. Read our gigabit modem guide if you are unsure what your speed tier requires.
Which ARRIS Surfboard modem should you choose?
Choose the SB8200 if you have a router and want a modem-only setup with two 1 Gigabit ports. Pick the S34 or S33 when you need a 2.5 Gigabit port, or the G34 or G36 when you want Wi-Fi 6 built in.
The G20 and G18 suit gig-speed combo setups, the G54 targets Wi-Fi 7 and multiple wired devices, and the T25 is for Xfinity Internet and Voice. Before you switch, confirm the exact model is supported for your provider and plan.
Our top 3 picks at a glance
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Frequently asked questions
Which ARRIS Surfboard modem is best for most homes?
The SB8200 is a fit if you want a modem only and already have a router. It has DOCSIS 3.1 and two 1 Gigabit Ethernet ports.
Choose a G-series model if you want Wi-Fi built in, and check your provider's compatibility list before buying.
Do ARRIS Surfboard modems include Wi-Fi?
Some do and some don't. The SB8200, S34 and S33 are modem-only models that need a separate router or mesh system for Wi-Fi.
The G-series models in this guide combine a cable modem and Wi-Fi router, while the T25 needs a router for Wi-Fi.
Will an ARRIS Surfboard modem work with my cable provider?
Compatibility depends on your provider, plan and exact model. ARRIS identifies the SB8200 as qualified for Cox, Xfinity and Spectrum, and the T25 is for Xfinity Internet and Voice.
Check your provider's current approved-device information before switching equipment.
Should you choose a 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet modem?
A 2.5 Gigabit port can make sense when your internet plan and router support speeds above 1 Gbps. The S34 and S33 each have a 2.5 Gigabit port plus a 1 Gigabit port.
For a plan at or below 1 Gbps, a model with 1 Gigabit ports may be enough.
Can you use an ARRIS modem with fiber internet?
No. These picks are cable modems, and the SB8200 is explicitly not compatible with fiber, DSL or satellite service.
If your provider connects your home with fiber, use the equipment it supports rather than choosing a cable modem.
